Despite being academically and athletically talented, Mary Broker's most striking feature is her ability to make other people smile.

She has a self-proclaimed obsession with Post-It notes, which serve as her main method for making others feel special.

“I love to write something nice on a Post-It and then stick it on someone's binder,”said Broker. “I love seeing them smile when they see it.”

The Warrenton High School junior's love of people has promoted her to become extremely involved in and out of school.

“I've found that a lot of people have that one thing that they really love,” she said, “but I just love everything, and because of that I want to share my love of things —whether it be theater or running or academics — with everyone else.”

Broker is a member of Student Council, Rotary Interact, Speech and Debate, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, Integrate, and the Holy Rosary Church youth group. She also participates in theater and is on both the track and cross country teams for Warrenton.

“With theater, that's more of just my outlet. It's me conquering my fears,” stated Broker. “Track and cross country really help my general attitude and my work ethic.”

That work ethic has promoted her to set high standards for herself. She hopes to finish high school with a 4.0 grade point average and has aspirations to attend a prestigious university outside of Missouri. Her sights are currently set on Harvard.

“I want to be pushed really hard, like to the brink of insanity… well maybe not quite that hard. I just think it would be so fulfilling to attend a school where everything is more challenging,” Broker said.

During college, she intends to study to become a nurse practitioner, but says that may change in the future because of her tendency to fall in love with many things. Broker likes the prospect of being a nurse practitioner because she can both challenge herself and make people happy.

“I'd get to care for people and brighten their days if I'm happy and joyous in their presence. I just like being happy and spreading joy to others,” she said.

Broker recently learned of her acceptance to a University of Notre Dame leadership academy, which she will attend from July 18-29, this coming summer.

What have been your favorite classes?

“I loved AP U.S. History last year with Mr. Menteer. It taught me so much and gave me a better appreciation for history. I also love AP Language with Mrs. Franke. She makes me happy.”

Who has been your greatest influence?

“My dad has had a really big impact on me because he is hardworking and no matter what happens he is always really caring and he always tries to understand about things. He grew up in a poor family, and worked his way up to success. It's inspirational to hear his story of how he got to where he is now.”

What has been your favorite thing about attending Warrenton High School?

“I really love the teachers here. Everyone is really supportive and wants to help you go where you want to go, whether that's college or not college or whatever your goal is. They're just really understanding.”

What has been your greatest accomplishment?

“I could list something off of my resume, but I think the most relevant thing I have done is making people smile. That's so important; just making people happy and hopefully encouraging them.”

Favorite Food: “Chocolate-covered strawberries.”

Favorite Restaurant: “Applebee's.”

Favorite Movie: “Courageous.”

Favorite Book: “My Sister's Keeper” by Jodi Picoult.

Favorite Music: “Classical.”